Formula 1 has revealed that the Turkish Grand Prix will make a comeback to the FIA Formula One World Championship starting from 2027, with Istanbul Park set to host races until 2031 under a new agreement with Turkiye’s Ministry of Youth and Sports. The Turkish Automobile Sports Federation (TOSFED) will collaborate with Formula 1 for upcoming events. Notably, the Turkish Grand Prix, last held in 2020 and 2021, witnessed Sir Lewis Hamilton clinching his seventh Drivers’ Championship in 2020, matching Michael Schumacher’s record.
Istanbul Park, which was introduced to the Formula 1 calendar in 2005, is known for being one of the most challenging tracks in the championship due to its 5.33-kilometre layout featuring significant elevation changes that test both driver skills and car performance. The circuit’s multi-apex turn 8 stands out as a demanding section, assessing drivers’ precision and commitment as they navigate the long, sweeping left-hander.
In 2021, Valtteri Bottas secured victory at Istanbul Park with Mercedes, joining Sir Lewis Hamilton as one of the only two current drivers to have won the Turkish Grand Prix. With a history of hosting nine Grands Prix, Turkey has become a beloved venue for teams, drivers, and fans, offering competitive racing across the field. Brazilian driver Felipe Massa holds the record for the most wins at Istanbul Park, achieving three consecutive victories between 2006 and 2008 while driving for Ferrari.
Formula 1’s popularity in Turkey continues to grow, boasting over 19 million fans and more than 7.5 million social media followers. The country has seen a 25% increase in Instagram followers year-on-year and a 107% rise in YouTube views. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of Turkey expressed his excitement about Formula 1’s return to the country, emphasizing the broad following the sport enjoys among all age groups, particularly the youth, with a passionate fan base.
